2/3/2016 - DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- A team of seven Dyess firefighters were called to assist a collaboration of more than 15 agencies to control and extinguish a 750-acre fire near the rural city of Eula that was threatening livestock and property Jan. 30.
As part of a mutual aid agreement with the local area, Dyess' 7th Civil Engineer Squadron firemen are on standby in case of an extended emergency when help is needed to control a fire.
According to Floyd Jones, 7th CES Fire Emergency Services deputy chief, the out-of-control fire had been burning for nearly five hours when emergency services requested support from a Dyess fire crew at approximately 4 p.m. Jones said he and a crew of six Airmen, along with three fire trucks, responded to the scene until the fire was under control at nearly midnight that evening.
"Our task was to respond to the wildland fire and augment the various departments in offensive fire attacks and defensive posturing to protect rural houses," Jones said. "We also provided a tanker, which provided a needed water supply to several volunteer firefighting vehicles."
Because of the historically dry weather and the dry vegetation in the Big Country, Jones said his team of firefighters is always prepared for the possibility of supporting local agencies during a wildfire. At the basic level, all firefighters on staff are certified with a Wildland Firefighter Level 1 certification.
"This time of year always presents a high wildland fire danger in this area," Jones said. "As such, we are always and have always been ready for any wildland fire, but in particular we knew this time of the year has a higher potential."
While the fire presented a challenge and training opportunity for his staff, Jones said it also allowed invaluable support with local firefighters.
"It's great to respond and assist the community," Jones said. "Not only does it help against their disaster, it's also part of building a stronger relationship with our local fire departments that could be called upon one day to assist Dyess."
For the younger firefighters at the station, like Senior Airman Darian Terry, this unfortunate incident allowed them to be a part of something bigger.
"I was excited to do my job fighting fires, but even more to be a help to the community," Terry said. "I can say I was proud to be out there representing the Air Force."
Helping the community, Jones said, is ultimately what they are most proud of being a part of.
"The community was really excited to see Air Force fire vehicles in their community to help defend against the fire," Jones said. "Many people thanked us, some in tears, as we lent a hand to protect their homes."